Can We All Do This Together?

Back in the mid to late 90s the Dogme 95 movement was all the rage. Developed by Danish filmmakers Lars Von Trier and Thomas Vinterberg, the movement and its’ “Vow of Chastity” (http://www.dogme95.dk/the_vow/vow.html) attempted to return filmmaking to what they saw as its’ pure state – telling stories about human beings.

In spite of great successes with films like “The Celebration” and “Julien Donkey-Boy”, the movement eventually petered out in the early 2000s. Both the world and the filmmakers had grown tired of shaky-camera melodramas.

What a difference 5 years makes.

Shot on hand-held digital video with an incidental soundtrack, Jonathan Demme’s “Rachel Getting Married” is shaping up to be one of the better pictures of the year.

While some might try to label it as such, the film’s style is far from a "gimmick". The film tells a story that is both beautiful and ruthless, which the cinematography reflects perfectly. Just as a scene can rapidly transition from heartbreaking to joyous, so too can the visuals switch from fluorescent jaundice to the most vivid and warm palette you can imagine.

Let us also not forget the performers who made this all possible. They are the ones who are able to make a conversation switch on a dime from cutting brutality to blissful hugging. Though Anne Hathaway will deservedly receive a huge amount of praise (and probably an Oscar® nomination) for her un-glamorous portrayal of recovering junkie Kym, we should not forget the rest of the cast. In moments both light and dark, everyone gets a chance to shine and they are all superb.

Last but most certainly not least, praise must be heaped upon screenwriter Jenny (daughter of Sidney) Lumet. Her screenplay is messy in the best way possible. It is content to leave some things unresolved and to ramble like her characters speak - with intense emotion and conviction.

Don’t be afraid.

This film knows where it's going and you really should come along.

PS: Roger Corman has a blink and you miss it cameo. Perhaps this is a sign from the gods that this will finally be Roger's year to get an honorary Oscar®.

*fingers crossed*